Speak Human: Why Credit Unions Should Ditch the Financial Jargon
Let’s be honest—most people don’t wake up in the morning excited to talk about APYs, debt-to-income ratios, or share certificates. They wake up thinking about paying their bills, saving for a dream vacation, or how to afford college for their kids. And that’s exactly why credit unions need to rethink the way they communicate. If your messaging is packed with financial lingo that only bankers understand, you’re missing the chance to connect with the very people you’re trying to help. Why Real Language MattersImagine walking into a mechanic’s shop and being bombarded with talk about torque ratios, camshafts, and viscosity indexes when all you wanted was an oil change. You’d probably tune out. That’s exactly how your members feel when you hit them with industry jargon. Real, conversational language makes your credit union approachable, relatable, and—most importantly—helpful. It removes the intimidation factor and helps members feel confident about their financial decisions instead of overwhelmed by complicated terms. The Benefits of Keeping It SimpleUsing everyday language isn’t just a nice thing to do; it actually benefits both your credit union and your members. Here’s how: How to Ditch the JargonMaking the switch to plain language doesn’t mean dumbing things down—it means making them clear. Here’s how: The Bottom LineFinancial jargon might make sense to those of us in the industry, but it creates a barrier between credit unions and the people they serve. By speaking in real, human language, you make it easier for members to engage, trust, and benefit from your services. And that’s what being a credit union is all about. So, the next time you sit down to write a marketing message, ask yourself: Does this sound like a conversation I’d have with a friend? If not, it’s time to rethink the language. Your members will thank you for it.
Credit Union Blogs – 4 Strategies to Revitalize Yours in 2025
To blog or not to blog? The age old question. Is it worth it? Do people read them? A blog can be a powerful tool for credit unions to connect with their communities, educate members, and build trust. But with so much digital noise, how do you ensure your content cuts through and keeps readers engaged? By focusing on impactful strategies that prioritize connection and relevance, your blog can become a go-to resource for members. Here’s how to revitalize your credit union blogs in 2025: 1. Embrace the Power of Short-Form Video As a Blog PostShort-form video is dominating digital engagement. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels have set the standard for quick, engaging content, and your blog can harness this trend. Embed short videos into your posts to visually explain financial concepts, highlight member success stories, or even showcase community events. For instance, instead of writing a long post on “How to Build Credit,” pair it with a 60-second video summarizing the key points. Readers who prefer visuals will engage more, and the videos can also be repurposed for social media, increasing your blog’s reach. 2. Focus on Timely and Relevant TopicsNothing grabs attention like content that feels urgent and relevant. Address current events, seasonal trends, or community-specific challenges in your posts. Instead of broad advice like “How to Save Money,” dig deeper with a blog titled, “5 Ways to Save During Rising Grocery Costs” or “How Our Community is Tackling Inflation Together.” By tying your content to what’s happening now, your credit union becomes a trusted source of advice and insight, driving readers to return for fresh perspectives.3. Practice What You Preach by Highlighting Community StoriesYour credit union thrives because of your community—so put it in the spotlight. Share real-life stories about your members, employees, and local partnerships. For example, a blog showcasing a member who used an auto loan to start their dream business or a recap of a community event can inspire pride and connection among readers. These authentic, feel-good stories reinforce the human side of your credit union and show that you’re more than just a place for financial services—you’re a community partner. 4. Prioritize Quality Over QuantityIn today’s busy digital world, less is more. Focus on publishing fewer but higher-quality posts that provide real value. A deeply researched, well-written blog post once a month is far more effective than weekly posts that feel rushed or lack depth. High-quality content shows readers you respect their time and sets your credit union apart as a professional and reliable resource. By focusing on short-form video, timely topics, community stories, and quality over quantity, your blog can stand out as an engaging platform that builds trust and loyalty. If your credit union blogs needs fresh perspective or a complete relaunch, Your Marketing Co. can help. From crafting engaging content strategies to implementing modern multimedia elements, we’ll help you create a blog that connects with your audience and drives results. Let’s work together to turn your blog into a powerful marketing tool!